Enhancing Your Home to Support the Needs of Your Cat with Arthritis

Cats rarely complain, so it can be challenging to tell if they are experiencing arthritis pain unless their food bowl is less than half-full. The following easy home improvements, however, can help your cat feel more comfortable and mobile if they have arthritis or appear to be having trouble moving around.

#1: Replace high-sided litter boxes with low-sided ones

While covered litter boxes are great for keeping litter granules and odors in check, they can be difficult for an arthritic cat to maneuver. Replace your cat’s regular litter boxes with low-sided, uncovered bathrooms so they can more easily hop in and out.

#2: Raise the water and food bowls for your cat

Your cat’s elbows are extremely worn out from jumping down for a living. Elevate your cat’s food and water dishes to a comfortable level to prevent your cat from stooping to reach them.

#3: Provide ramps for furniture

Your arthritic cat might find it difficult to climb their climbing tower, but they probably still enjoy gazing out the window, so put a ramp nearby. Your cat can maintain their independence and continue to satisfy instinctual needs, such as climbing, hiding, and surveying their territory, by having ramps installed at lookout towers or favorite resting places.

#4: Provide supportive bedding

Although extra soft, cushy bedding may seem especially cozy to your cat, they will discover that a too-soft bed is not only difficult to get out of but also offers little cushion for sore joints. Your cat’s sore body will be supported appropriately by a firm, orthopedic bed.

#5: Use non-slip mats on slick flooring

Providing traction on slippery flooring can help prevent painful slips and falls, even if your cat no longer gets the zoomies in the middle of the night and races up and down your hallway. Your cat can walk on carpet runners or yoga mats without sliding.

Your arthritic cat may benefit from home modifications, but maintaining a healthy weight and managing their pain are equally important. Give us a call to set up an appointment so that our team can assist you with these.